Getting involved in your health care can help you get the most from your health plan.

Know the Rules

• Understand what services your plan does not cover by reading the member handbook or talking to your employer.
  
• Know how to choose or change your primary care physician.
  
• Understand how to schedule appointments for check-ups and when you are sick.
  
• Know when you need referrals and how to get them.
  
• Know what you are required to do when using a hospital or emergency room.

Stay Informed

• Be sure to learn about any new policies affecting how the plan works by reading member newsletters and checking the plan’s Web site.
  
• Know the telephone numbers and hours of your physician's office and the plan's member services department.

Keep Records

• Write down your health concerns to help you discuss them with your doctor.
• Set up health files to keep track of the care and services received by you and members of your family.
  

Take Charge

• Take good care of your health by making appointments for check-ups and preventive care.
  
• Talk with your doctor about when you need regular health screenings.
  
• Call member services if you don’t understand information that the plan or provider sends you.
  
• If you don’t understand the answers to your questions, ask that they be explained to you.

Choose a Doctor Carefully

• Ask for recommendations from medical societies, health care providers, referral services, hospitals, family members and friends.
  
• Get information about the doctor’s training and experience from the plan or the doctor.
  
• Ask if the doctor is board certified in his or her specialty area.
  
• Check whether prospective doctors have had any disciplinary actions issued against them. For information on New Jersey physicians, including disciplinary actions, call the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners at (609) 826-7100 or visit www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/bme/docdir.htm.